to my daughter
August 18, 2012 § 1 Comment
I love the sound of your giggles drifting under your door as you talk about everything and nothing with your friend. I watched you form this friendship under a summer sun, in the cool shallow waters of our public pool just before your Kindergarten year.
There have been days when you and your friend were divided by hurt feelings and days you were inseparably linked hand in hand, heart to heart. There have been times I questioned your connection and times it seemed unquestionable you were both destined for friendship. Watching you grow as a friend and an individual there are two lessons we are sharing as mother and daughter.
Letting go. Despite my wish to shield you from mistakes and guide you towards joy, you must navigate your own friendships. When you hurt I stand close enough for you to find me and wait for you to unravel your emotions until you find the kernel of harm. I balance sharing my perspective with valuing your insight.
Holding tight. On occasion I reach for your hand and pull you aside reminding you of your choices and my expectations. While you choose friendships, I hold you simultaneously to the values we share as a family creating a mindfulness of your own behaviors as an individual within a friendship.
My sweet girl, I wish you friendship that comforts you and challenges you, inspires and celebrates you. I wish you friendship you earn with others you trust. In this world where we use the word friendship casually, I hope you weigh its value with truth and love.
scribblechic 
Ah…to ourselves, too. Thanks for this.